Two of York’s most remarkable commemorations of the First World War are to combine for what is sure to be a moving Remembrance Sunday tribute.
Last year hundreds of residents took part in Blood + Chocolate, the Pilot Theatre production which recreated York’s First World War story on the streets of York.
And on Sunday (November 9) the choir from the show will reunite to sing some of the songs at York Castle Museum’s First World War exhibition.
Small groups of choir members will be placed in different exhibition spaces, with the songs composed by Heather Fenoughty chosen to reflect the themes in different galleries of 1914: When the World Changed Forever.
“When we were approached by the Blood + Chocolate choir we thought it was the perfect way to mark this very special Remembrance Day,” said Alison Bodley, senior curator of history.
“The choir are fantastic and hearing their emotive songs performed against the backdrop of our exhibition is a thought provoking and moving experience.”
Shino Mogan, a member of the choir, said “We all loved and enjoyed Heather’s music last year.
“It is such a privilege for us to sing it again at York Castle Museum this year in honour of the First World War centenary.”
Where and when
The choir will be performing between 2pm and 4.30pm. They will be split into four groups of singers.
The first group will be positioned in the Belle Époque gallery, performing music conveying a sense of excitement and restrained thrill to reflect the optimism in Britain in 1914 when war broke out.
The second group will be in the Supplies Room singing upbeat and inclusive music.
In the Home Front section of the exhibition a Women’s Quartet will perform a piece that is wistful and melancholy, reflective of the war from a woman’s point of view.
The final piece, Agnus Dei, will be performed at the end of the exhibition. This will be more spiritual and religious in tone, conveying the innocence lost and the slaughter of millions of men on both sides.